Barrier system

ABSTRACT

A barrier system includes a substantially vertical structure with a coating layer disposed on and circumscribing a majority of the substantially vertical structure. The coating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches, has a dried film thickness of at least 5 mils, and has an average surface roughness (Ra) of less than 10 microns.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Prov. App.Ser. No. 63/241,724 filed Sep. 8, 2021; U.S. Prov. App. Ser. No.63/230,128 filed Aug. 6, 2021; U.S. Prov. App. Ser. No. 63/194,625 filedMay 28, 2021; U.S. Prov. App. Ser. No. 63/173,889 filed Apr. 12, 2021;and U.S. Prov. App. Ser. No. 63/119,589 filed Nov. 30, 2020. Thisapplication is also a Continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.17/010,803 filed Sep. 2, 2020, which is a Continuation-in-part of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/709,371 filed Dec. 10, 2019, which is aContinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/456,464 filed Jun. 28,2019, now abandoned, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.Prov. App. Ser. No. 62/691,519 filed Jun. 28, 2018, all of which arehereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to a barrier system to prevent passage ofpests from scaling or climbing a vertically ascending structure, such asan exterior of a home or a wooden leg of a crib.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Many insects and other creatures are considered pests, and some can posea serious threat to buildings and people. Physical barriers can be usedto prevent crawling pests from entering buildings and scalingstructures. However, these systems generally rely on placing a physicalbarrier that seals a structure and are typically bulky, expensive, andaesthetically displeasing. On the opposite end of the spectrum,insecticides may be used to help control pest populations but do notphysically stop pests from entering buildings/structures. In some cases,insecticide can take days or weeks to kill a pest, during that timepests can enter homes and in some cases inflict harm on the residents ofthose homes. Furthermore, these chemical solutions are typicallytemporary and require repeated applications. Accordingly, there remainsa need for an improved pest prevention system (i.e., a system that keepspests from entering structures).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is directed to a barrier system. The barriersystem includes a substantially vertical structure with a coating layerdisposed on and circumscribing a majority of the substantially verticalstructure. The coating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches, has adried film thickness of at least 5 mils, and has an average surfaceroughness (Ra) of less than 10 microns.

The present disclosure also includes methods of forming the barriersystem. One method includes applying a liquid coating to a surface ofthe substantially vertical structure to form the coating layer disposedover and circumscribing the substantially vertical structure. Anothermethod includes transferring a dried coating layer to the substantiallyvertical structure to form the coating layer disposed over andcircumscribing the substantially vertical structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages of the present disclosure will be readily appreciated, as thesame becomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription, when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates a substantially vertical structure with a coatinglayer disposed thereof.

FIG. 2 illustrates various spray patterns on a surface.

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the spray application process.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of an alternative spray applicationprocess.

FIG. 5 illustrates a gravity spray gun as an applicator.

FIG. 6 illustrates a structure with exposed flashing.

FIG. 7 illustrates a modified spray gun.

FIG. 8 illustrates a modified spray tip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure provides a barrier system for preventing orreducing the likelihood of pests being able to scale a structure andgain access to upper portions of the structure. In instances where thestructure is a home, the barrier system also prevents or reduces thelikelihood of pests from reaching the interior of the home. Nonlimitingexamples of pests include scorpions, cockroaches, spiders, etc.

The barrier system includes a substantially vertical structure and acoating layer disposed over and circumscribing the substantiallyvertical structure. For the purposes of this disclosure the term“substantially” within the phrase “substantially vertical structure”means a structure extending absolutely vertical with an alloweddeviation of 5 degrees. For example, the substantially verticalstructure may extend from 85 to 95 degrees from level ground.

The barrier system also includes a coating layer disposed over andcircumscribing the majority of the substantially vertical structure. Forthe purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “circumscribing the majorityof the substantially vertical structure” means that the coating layercircumscribes more than 50% of the structure. Typically, when thestructure is a house, the coating layer may circumscribe the entirehouse with the exception of the doorway, the garage opening, and otherbarriers, such as electrical cables, water lines, meters, etc. Thus,typically, the barrier system circumscribes at least 80, 85, 90, or 95%of the vertical structure.

The coating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches. Alternatively,the coating layer may have a height of 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 2.7,2.9, 3.1, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7, 3.9, 4.1, 4.3, or 4.5, inches. For example,when the coating layer circumscribes at least 80% of the verticalstructure and has a height of 0.25 inches and the vertical structure isa house, a 0.25 inch band of the coating layer is disposed along 80% ofthe perimeter of the house.

Although not necessary for preventing or reducing the likelihood ofpests, such as scorpions, from being able to scale a structure and gainaccess to upper portions of the structure, the height of the coatinglayer may also exceed 4.5 inches, if desired. Generally, the height ofthe coating layer is selected to prevent pests, such as scorpions, frombeing able to contact non-coated surfaces above the coating layer andgrasping the non-coated surfaces to gain access across the coatinglayer. For example, a coating layer having a height of 2.5 inches mayform a band around the majority of a perimeter of the home, with theband having gaps located at door and garage openings. In certainembodiments, the band may bend, curve, or turn, when circumscribing thestructure to maintain a continuous perimeter when possible. For example,when a door is present in the structure, the band may curve around thedoor rather than merely leaving a gap in the vicinity of the door.

The coating layer has an average surface roughness (R_(a)) of less than10 μm, when measured with a TR-Y-SRT-6200S Surface Roughness Gaugeaccording to ANSI/ASME B46.1.

Alternatively, the average surface roughness may be less than 9, 8, 7,6, or 5 μm. Typically, the average surface roughness (R_(a)) of lessthan 10 μm, is sufficient to prevent or reduce scorpions and other pestsfrom climbing up the surface of the coating layer. Without being held toany particular theory, when the coating layer has an average surfaceroughness (R_(a)) of less than 10 μm, the coating layer has a solid,slick “glass-like” surface that cannot be scaled by the hook-basedmobility found in scorpions and other pests, as well as claws and limbsof insects and mammals. In other words, the surface of the coating layeris extremely smooth and many pests, such as scorpions and cockroaches,are unable to scale this smooth surface because their mode of mobilityis unable to grasp the coating or penetrate the coating. As a result,the pests (e.g., scorpions) are kept at the ground level and unable togain access to certain seams, holes, or transitions of material commonlyfound in a home. In embodiments where the structure is not a home, thepests are kept from reaching areas where their presence is undesired.For example, when the structure is the leg of a crib, the coating layerprevents the pests (e.g. scorpions) from scaling the legs of a crib toreach the mattress supported by the crib.

The coating layer is typically formed by applying a liquid coating.Although not required, typically the liquid coating is applied at a wetfilm thickness of at least 10 mils. Multiple passes/coats may be used tobuild the wet film thickness. Applying the liquid coating at a wet filmthickness of at least 10 mils allows the coating to self-level and formthe coating layer with an average surface roughness (R_(a)) of less than10 μm. Depending on the substrate, greater wet film thickness may beneeded to allow the wet coating to self-level and overcome the roughnessand/or porosity of the substrate. For example, wet film thickness of 24mils may be needed to overcome rough substrates, such as weatheredcinder blocks. The coating layer may be applied by any suitableapplication method, such as roll applying, brush applying, or sprayapplying.

Typically, the liquid coating includes at least 40 wt. % of solidcontent, based on the total weight of the liquid coating. In otherwords, the liquid coating typically has a percent solid of 40 wt. %,which results in the coating having a high viscosity. The high viscosityis also particularly advantageous because it allows a relatively highamount of liquid coating (e.g., 12 mils or greater) to be appliedwithout sagging. If sagging was to occur, it would likely increase thesurface roughness and thus decrease the ability of the barrier system toprevent pests from scaling/climbing across the coating layer. In certainembodiments, the liquid coating has a percent solid of 42, 44, 46, 48,50, 52, 54, or 56 wt. %, based on the total weight of the liquidcoating.

Although not required, the liquid coating typically has a viscositygreater than 300 mm²/s when measured in accordance with ASTM D4212-99.Alternatively, the viscosity of the liquid coating may be from 300 to1,200, 400 to 1,200, 500 to 1,200, 600 to 1,200, 700 to 1,200, 800 to1,100, 900 to 1,100 or about 1,000, mm²/s. In addition, although notrequired, the coating layer typically has a gouge and scratch hardnessof at least 2H, when measured in accordance with ASTM D3363-20 using aWolff-Wilborn pencil.

As a result of the relatively high wet film thickness of the liquidcoating and the fact that the wet coating typically has a percent solidof at least 40 wt. %, the coating layer has a dried film thickness of atleast 5 mils. Generally, the relatively high percent solid contentcontributes to the high viscosity of the liquid coating which results ina liquid coating that resists sagging while maintaining its ability toself-level on a substantially vertical structure. Along these lines, theability to self-level at high wet film thicknesses without saggingestablishes the low average surface roughness (R_(a)) of the coatinglayer. Thus, relatively higher dried film thickness values areassociated with relatively lower average surface roughness values (i.e.,the greater the thickness, the smoother the surface).

In an alternative embodiment, the coating layer may be applied to thesubstantially vertical structure as a pre-dried and/or pre-cured coatinglayer. In other words, in this embodiment, the coating layer is dry tothe touch before the dried coating layer is transferred to thesubstantially vertical structure. In this embodiment, the coating layermay have an adhesive applied to an underside of the coating layer toadhere the coating layer to the substantially vertical structure. Forexample, the coating layer may have a pressure sensitive adhesiveapplied to the underside of the coating layer. Of course, in thealternative, the adhesive may be applied directly to the substantiallyvertical structure before the dried coating layer is transferred to thesubstantially vertically structure. Although not required, a primer mayalso be applied prior to the adhesive. When the coating layer istransferred to the substantially vertical structure via an adhesive, thecoating layer may be generally referred to as a high-performance tape ormore simply a tape.

The manner in which the dried coating layer is transferred to thesubstantially vertical structure is not particularly limited. Forexample, as an alternative to the adhesive described above, the driedcoating layer may be mechanically attached to the substantially verticalstructure via inserting and then feeding the dried coating layer into atrack system that was previously installed on the substantially verticalstructure. As another alternative to the pressure sensitive adhesivedescribed above, the adhesive of the coating layer may also be activatedby heating.

It is to be appreciated that the chemistry of the dried coating layermay be any of the chemistries described within this disclosure. It is tobe further appreciated that the dried coating layer should be formed tohave the surface roughness described within this disclosure. Finally,although the film thickness of the coating layer is typically over 5mils, lower film thickness are expressly contemplated while being ableto achieve the desired surface roughness. For example, it is known inthe art that a coating can be cast on a carrier film (e.g. biaxiallyoriented PET) having a smooth surface (i.e., a surface roughness withinthe scope of this disclosure). The resulting surface of the coatinglayer that mates with the carrier film will obtain the surface roughnessof the carrier film as the coating layer dries or cures against thecarrier film. An adhesive may then be applied to the opposite surface ofthe dried coating layer and the carrier film may be removed. The carrierfilm may also remain with the dried coating layer during storage of thedried coating layer, particularly if the dried coating layer is coiledand includes an adhesive. Thus, during application of the dried coatinglayer, once the carrier film is removed, the mating surface may have therequisite surface roughness for deterring pests and scorpions whilehaving a film thickness of less than 5 mils. For example, the dried filmthickness of the carrier layer may be from 0.5 to 35, 1 to 30, 1 to 20,1 to 15, 1 to 10, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, or about 3, or from 15 to 35, 20 to35, 25 to 35 or about 30, mils.

Without departing from the present disclosure, it is also contemplatedthat the dried coating layer may be dry to the touch but not completelycured upon its application to the substantially vertical structure.Within this particular embodiment, the coating layer may be fully curedafter the dried coating layer is transferred. Suitable methods tocomplete the full cure of the dried coating layer include the use of aUV lamp, particularly when the chemistry of the dried coating layer isacrylic based. Of course, heat or forced air may also be used to fullycure the coating later after the coating layer is applied to thesubstantially vertical structure.

Although the chemistry of the coating is not particularly limited,provided the coating layer has the requisite height, thickness, andaverage surface roughness (R_(a)), the coating layer may include anacrylic polymer. In certain embodiments, the acrylic polymer may befurther defined as a copolymer of styrene and 2-ethylhexylacrylate. Thecopolymer of styrene and 2-ethylhexylacrylate is typically present in anamount of from about 40 to about 60 wt. % based on the total weight ofthe liquid coating. The liquid coating may also include dimethylcarbonate from 40 to 60 wt. % for use as a solvent. Alternatively, theliquid coating may include a solvent blend of petroleum naphtha as alight aromatic in an amount of less than 50 wt. %, 1-2-4trimethylbenzene between in an amount of from 5 to 25 wt. %, 1-3-5trimethylbenzene in an amount of from 0-6 wt. %, xylene in an amount offrom 0 to 15 wt. %, each based on the total weight of the liquidcoating. The coating layer may also include other additives, such asCaCO₃, which generally further increases the viscosity of the liquidcoating.

In other embodiments as an alternative to the copolymer of styrene and2-ethylhexylacrylate, the acrylic coating may include poly(methylmethacrylate-co-butyl acrylate-co-methacrylic acid). In furtheralternative embodiments, the coating layer may be a blend of epoxy andsilicone resins (i.e., an epoxy silicone coating). In addition, asfurther alternatives, polyurethanes may also be used as the basechemistry of the coating layer.

In still further embodiments, the coating layer of the barrier systemmay be formed from a water-based coating. The chemistry of thewater-based coating is not particularly limited. For example, thewater-based coating may include acrylates, polyurethanes, epoxy, etc. Inone embodiment, the water-based coating for use in the barrier system isan acrylic emulsion with a glass transition temperature of about 23° C.Although not required, multiple coats of the water-based coating may beused to reach the desired film thickness. For example, 2, 3, 4, 5, oreven 6 successive applications of the water-based coating may be used toreach the desired film thickness and surface roughness.

In embodiments where the water-based coating for use in the barriersystem is the acrylic emulsion, the coating may also include one or morerheology modifiers. Suitable rheology modifiers include, APEO-free,solvent-free, hydrophobically modified ethylene oxide urethane (HEUR)rheology modifiers.

The barrier system may also include a pesticide applied directly on thecoating layer or below the coating layer. In certain embodiments, thepesticide may include a polymeric component. Although not required, thepolymeric component may encapsulate an active ingredient of thepesticide. Although not required, the polymeric component of thepesticide may be the same type of polymeric component included in thecoating layer. For example, when the coating layer includes an acrylicpolymer, the pesticide may be formulated to include an acrylic polymer.It is to be appreciated that the coating layer and the pesticide mayboth include acrylic polymers, but the precise acrylic polymer may bedifferent. For example, the coating layer may include2-ethylhexylacrylate and the pesticide may include an acrylate that isdifferent than 2-ethylhexylacrylate, but the coating layer and thepesticide are still both considered to include acrylic polymers.

Without being held to any particular theory, it is believed that thecoating layer assists with the retention of pesticide and prolongs theusable life of the pesticide. This is particularly desirable because notonly does the coating layer prevent or reduce the ability of pests toscale/climb across its surface, but the coating layer also decreases theoverall amount of pesticide that is required for a particularapplication, by reducing the frequency of the application of pesticide.In other words, when the pesticide is applied to the coating layer and anon-coated substrate (e.g., brick or cinder block) the pesticidecontinues to be active on the coating layer for a longer period of timewhen compared to non-coated or conventionally coated substrates. Thus,to maintain active pesticide on the non-coated substrate or theconventionally coated substrate, the pesticide must be reapplied morefrequently as compared to the coating layer of the barrier system of thepresent disclosure.

In addition, when the pesticide is applied below the coating layer, thecoating layer still functions to increase the practical effectiveness ofthe pesticide, because as pests attempt and fail, to climb up thecoating layer, the pests fall/slide back into the pesticide and thus theamount of time that the pests dwell in the pesticide is greater incomparison to a non-coated structure. For example, scorpions may quicklypass through an area adjacent to a structure that has been treated witha pesticide and quickly ascend up a structure and out of the pesticide.However, when the structure includes the coating layer of thisdisclosure, the scorpion will reenter, sometimes repeatedly, thepesticide treated area as the scorpions fail and struggle to climb thecoating layer. Thus, it has been surprisingly found that the coatinglayer having a height of merely 0.25 inches can increase theeffectiveness of a pesticide applied below the coating layer.

Referring now to the figures, as shown in FIG. 1, the coating layer 40may be applied to exposed foundation 20 in typical masonry/stucco homes.The exposed foundation 20 may emerge over the ground level 15 and exposeapproximately two to six inches of mostly vertical foundation 20, orflashing. Flashing may be exposed concrete, or other treatments, such asmetal plating, paint, etc. The ground 15 is often set back at two- orfour-degree slope to prevent liquid build up against the foundation 20by allowing drainage away from the building structure. Additionally, thebuilding 30 sits upon the foundation 20 and is set above the groundlevel to prevent flooding, but also to provide a minor barrier tocrawling pests. However, it is known that the concrete often used forfoundations provides a suitable surface to allow crawling pests,including scorpions, to access the building through recesses 32, holes,cracks, etc. planned or otherwise imperfections that inevitably occur inthe building. While neurotoxins and other pesticides may be appliedaround the house, or on the foundation, the present invention provides aphysical barrier specially formulated and structured to prevent pestsfrom climbing over the coating layer (e.g., the crawling of scorpions byungues). The coating layer 40 acts as a permanent flashing against thefoundation 20.

The liquid coating is preferably applied by brush application. Althoughnot required, multiple coats of the liquid coating may be applied toachieve the desired wet film thickness. Typically, when multiple coatsare used to apply the liquid coating, the liquid coating is applied intwo, three, or four coats.

Alternatively, the liquid coating may also be applied by spraying. Thespray gun used to spray apply may be powered by an air compressorattached to a high velocity/low pressure sprayer (HVLP) (such as agravity-feed spray gun). The air compressor is preferably set at thirtypsi. The low pressure is often required to limit or prevent splash andbouncing of acrylic as it is applied, and is often necessary for acomplete coverage as the self-leveling occurs to provide a proper andcomplete coverage to the surface. Gravity guns may be preferred as theyinclude more clearance below the spray head.

The site is preferably prepared for application of spray coating byremoval of vegetation and large objects to a distance from structure byat least two feet. Previously painted surfaces may require cleaning tobe free of residues, oily film, and loose paint chips. Wire brushing andwashing the surface are also preferred prior to application.

Additionally, a second stripe may be painted, coated, sprayed, orotherwise applied in parallel with the stripe or otherwise (e.g. onwalls and around doors, etc.) around the structure. In a preferred case,a four-inch exposed foundation flashing will be coated with athree-inch-wide acrylic stripe next to (and possibly adjacent, andpossibly overlapping) a pesticide shield/barrier stripe (e.g. one inchin width). It is contemplated that any treatments will be conducted oncleaned surfaces, and if possible, the acrylic treatment will either beapplied first, or if applied earlier, will be wiped and cleaned afterapplication of other treatments. For instance, as seen in FIG. 6,acrylic barrier 310 is applied to foundation 300 in approximately athree-inch-wide (tall) stripe around corner 302. Additional pesticidetreatment barrier 330 is applied as a one-inch-wide stripe there above.A ground treatment barrier 340 may also be applied to the surface. Wherea 3.5 inch or wider acrylic stripe is preferred, pesticide barrier mayalso be applied to underside 355 of jutted building corner wall 350.

Surface preparation is critical. Previously painted surfaces must bethoroughly cleaned and free of residues, oily film, and loose paintchips.

As shown in FIG. 2, when spray applying, an appropriate spray patternshould be applied to the surface. Fine patterns 110 will fail to provideadequate coverage and may lead to untreated surface, while coarsepatterns 120 may lead to a lumpy or inconsistent surface that mayprovide a foothold for pests to climb. Only a proper correct pattern 100executed under appropriate pressure will result in the expected levelsurface treatment necessary to prevent passage of crawling scorpions,other pests, and the like.

As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, appropriate spray distance and angle should beapproximately three inches from the surface and angle deviation fromperpendicular should be minimized. Spray head 200 emits spray 210 totreat surface 250. Spray head 200 should be aligned to provide a tallemission (up/down with occluded sides (left/right) as is known in theart. A proper method of treating the surface includes a stroke. Firstthe stroke is started by initiating horizontal movement 291, then thetrigger is pulled initiating the spray 292, the movement horizontallyshould be consistent in speed. While still moving horizontally andmaintaining proper distance (approx. 3 inches) the trigger is released293. Movement continues during the release 293. Movement is then laterended and the stroke is completed 294. Distance may be modified asneeded depending on conditions, temperature, humidity, wind, surfacefeatures, and viscosity of fluid. To modify the height of application,it is preferable to begin a stroke at a different height. Alternatively,up/down motion may be applied. Preferably, for up/down motion, the sprayhead is adjusted and rotated ninety-degrees to provide spray pattern.

The spray should cover at least 0.25 inches and preferably 3.5 inches invertical height along the vertical surface. The barrier is intended toprevent climbing of pests. Application is preferably close to the groundon a mostly smooth surface. Application is preferable on exposedfoundation, or flashing, seen in many stucco-finished homes.

The essential tools for spray applying are shown in FIG. 5 and will bereadily understood by one having ordinary skill in the art. A wire brushand sponge brush may be used to prepare the surface for treatment.Masking tape can be used to protect the structure and ground, andotherwise prevent inadvertent coating of surfaces meant to be keptclean. In addition to essential tools, other equipment may be utilizedin the treatment process. A compressor is powered via an extension cord(preferably retractable to prevent tripping an interference with spray).Hoses provide fluid connections to the compressor, and mixture, andother fluids. The spray gun may be set up to mix the thinner solution(such as mineral spirits, etc.) with the acrylic in the gun prior tospray head release.

Brushes can be used to prepare surfaces, along with dish soap plasticcovering around treated area and tape. Application user should useprotective gear such as a body suit, goggles, respirator, and shoecoverings. A pump sprayer may be used with a soap solution, or othercleaning solution (including plain water) to prepare and/or clean-upsite.

In preparing for the treatment, one may use a degreaser such as TSP toremove stubborn oil or grease, which is followed by rinsing thoroughlyto remove residual degreaser. Power-washing, sanding or blasting isrecommended but not required on clean well-prepared surfaces. The clearsurface may then be etched with an appropriate chemical. Concrete maycontinue to leach lime even after it has cured so etching is preferred.Allow to dry thoroughly and wait at least 48 hours or test for moistureto ensure dryness. One test may incite taping edges of a clear plasticsheet to the surface and waiting a few hours. If moisture is evident itis too wet. Wait until there is no sign of moisture before proceeding.

In some applications, multiple coatings may be used. Applying a firstpass of a liquid coating seals the substrate and serves as a primercoat. A second coat may be applied, and if so, should be applied evenlyavoiding heavy build up. Alternatively, the second, potentially third,fourth and more coats may be applied on the same day, including after afew minutes, hours, or immediately after the previous application.

Preferably, the spray gun is customized to spray out the relativelythick material. Spray gun may utilize a customized tip. The containermay be set below the gun to the bottom.

Preferably, the spray tip is customized. In particular, a 3.5 mm tip hasbeen found to produce good results. Standard high-volume, low pressure(HVLP) Gravity Spray guns are not known to provide a tip that large.Standard, 1.4 mm-2.2 mm standard tips can be machined to 3.5 mm tips.

Preferably, a modified standard HVLP Gravity gun may be used. A ‘normal’HVLP gravity has the application container on the top of the gun barrel;however, it may be modified so the container is on the bottom of the gunbarrel adjacent to the gun trigger and handle see FIG. 7. Spray gun 400includes cup 401 joined by threaded coupling 402. Spray tip 403 is seton the end.

To operate a spray gun as shown in FIG. 7, a fifteen-gallon compressorhaving a consistent 50 psi is preferred. The spray gun should have aminimum 45 psi to drive acrylic products. A spray tip of 3 mm as shownin FIG. 8 is preferred. Cup 401 is supported by coupling 402. Tipgenerally includes carrier washer 410 to support spray tip 403threadedly engaged to the washer. Spray tip 403 includes extendedconical emitter 413 with machined (or wide) aperture 420 to provide forflow of material. Tip may include channels 411 to couple tip 403 towasher 410. Cup support 430 is shown for reference.

There can be instances of a ‘cotton candy’ also known as ‘spider web’effect if there is too much pressure and/or tip is not open enough. The‘cotton candy’ effect happens when the coating dries out too quickly dueto excess pressure and/or spray tip is not open enough. The ‘cottoncandy’ effect looks like thin white pieces of cotton candy floatingaround.

EXAMPLES

Sample bricks were coated with an acrylic based coating (hereafter the“inventive coating”), with the liquid coating applied in 2 milincrements. The acrylic was further defined as a copolymer of styreneand 2-ethylhexylacrylate. The resultant dry film thickness and averagesurface roughness (R_(a)) are shown below in Table I. The averagesurface roughness was calculated by averaging five measurements. Acontrol sample, which was not coated, was also included.

TABLE I Wet Film Dry Film Average Sample Thickness Thickness R_(a) No.(mils) (mils) (μm) Control 0 0 25.1 1 2 1.02 14.9 2 4 2.88 13.4 3 6 4.4410.4 4 8 4.96 10.6 5 10 5.32 9.0 6 12 7.04 9.2 7 14 8.54 9.1 8 16 9.888.4 9 18 10.7 7.3 10 20 11.24 6.8 11 22 13.48 7.0 12 24 14.82 6.2 13 2615.2 5.1 14 28 15.86 5.6 15 30 16.14 4.5

The relationship between coating thickness and surface roughness whenapplied to a brick substrate was modeled with the logarithmic equationy=−3.68 ln x+15.3. As coating thickness increased, surface roughnessinitially decreased at a rapid rate and then stabilized.

The samples were then evaluated for their ability to prevent scorpionsfrom climbing up the bricks. Specifically, the samples were separatelyplaced in a 10 gallon aquarium tank, which was heated to 33.7° C. forthe purpose of simulating desert temperatures. Silicone-tipped tongswere used to transfer one scorpion to the heated tank. Tongs were usedto face the scorpion towards the sample and gently prod the scorpion'sopisthosoma to prompt climbing. The distance between the scorpion'sposterior legs and the floor of the tank was measured 60 seconds afterits first pair of legs made contact with the surface of the bricksample. This test was repeated for 20 scorpions for each sample. Theresults of the experiment are shown below in Table II.

TABLE II Sample 1 Sample 2 Sample 3 Sample 4 Sample 5 Samples 6-15Scorpion (height (height (height (height (height (height No. Controlclimbed, cm) climbed, cm) climbed, cm) climbed, cm) climbed, cm)climbed, cm) 1 20 3.5 1 0 0 0.25 0 2 20 16 2.75 9.5 4.5 0.25 0 3 20 6.51.25 0.5 0 0 0 4 20 5.25 1.5 0 0.25 0 0 5 20 20 5.5 1.5 3 0.25 0 6 20 220 0 0 0 0 7 20 3 4 0 0 0 0 8 20 7.25 0.5 0.5 0 0 0 9 20 2.5 2 0.5 0 0 010 20 9.25 7.5 0.25 0 0 0 11 20 3.25 0 0.5 0 0 0 12 20 20 1.5 0 0.25 0 013 20 3 1 0 0 0 0 14 20 20 0.25 7 1.75 0 0 15 20 3.75 20 0 0.25 0.25 016 20 4.75 0 0.75 0 0 0 17 20 1.05 6 0 0.5 0 0 18 20 3.5 4.5 7 0 0 0 1920 1.5 0 0.5 7.5 0.25 0 20 20 20 1.5 0.25 0 0.25 0

The above data shows that each and every of the 20 scorpions climbed tothe top of the control. In addition, the data demonstrates thatobtaining an average surface roughness of less than 10 μm was extremelyeffective in preventing scorpions from climbing to a height over 2.5inches. In fact, not a single scorpion out of the 20 scorpions was ableto climb over 0.25 inches in height for any of the samples having anaverage surface roughness of less than 10 μm.

A second, similar set of experiments was also performed on cinderblocks. Specifically, cinder blocks were coated with a 3.2 cm verticalinventive coating layer that circumscribed the entire cinder block. Inother words, unlike the previous experiment where the entire brick wascoated, an inventive coating layer having a height of 3.2 cm was appliedto the cinder blocks of this experiment. The liquid coating was appliedin 2 mil increments. The resultant dry film thickness and averagesurface roughness (R_(a)) are shown below in Table III. The averagesurface roughness was calculated by averaging five measurements. Acontrol sample, which was not coated, was also included for the purposesof evaluating its surface roughness.

TABLE III Wet Film Dry Film Average Sample Thickness Thickness R_(a) No.(mils) (mils) (μm) Control 0 0 42.2 16 2 1.26 33.6 17 4 2.22 26.1 18 6 325.1 19 8 4.5 26.4 20 10 6.36 20.8 21 12 8.98 16.0 22 14 9.14 14.9 23 1610.6 12.8 24 18 12 12.8 25 20 12.54 12.0 26 22 12.64 10.1 27 24 13.969.4 28 26 14.16 9.1 29 28 14.4 9.2 30 30 15 9.2 31 32 15.66 9.1 32 3417.24 8.0 33 36 18.12 8.5

15 scorpions were placed in a 10 gallon glass aquarium with a substrateof desert soil and gravel. During the day, the tank was heated to 33.7°C. with a heat lamp to simulate a natural desert environment in earlysummer. One hour before starting the experiment, the heat lamp wasturned off, and each sample was placed in the center of the tank. Acylindrical wire cage with crickets was placed inside the hollow innerportion of the cinder block to attract the scorpions.

Video footage was recorded from 8:00-9:30 PM using an iPhone 12 Pro Maxand a Sony Handycam HDR-XR260 camcorder positioned at diagonal oppositecorners of the tank, each capturing two adjacent cinder block surfaces.The iPhone was used to record scorpion activity on the south and eastfaces of the cinder block, and the Sony camcorder was used to record thenorth and west faces. In order to ensure visibility of the video footagewhile maintaining a natural nighttime environment, the tank was kept ina dark warehouse with each end of the tank illuminated with red light.The red light was used because it is well known that scorpions havelittle to no visual sensitivity to this wavelength.

Footage was sped up to 32× its original speed using iMovie, and wasanalyzed using Apple's QuickTime Player software. The data was recordedmanually by tallying the number of times each increment of coating waspassed through vertically by scorpions. When collecting data from thevideo footage, a scorpion was considered to have climbed through acertain increment of coating when its 4th pair of legs made contact withthe surface at that thickness. When a scorpion was observed climbing ona S-W or N-E corner of the block, thus visible from both cameras, datawas collected only from the SE video footage to avoid counting the samescorpion in both videos. Additionally, only scorpions moving in avertical upward direction with prosoma facing toward the top of theblock were counted. Scorpions climbing downward from the top of thesample toward the floor of the tank were not counted. The results of theexperiment are shown below in Table IV.

TABLE IV Number of times Number of times Dry Film crossed verticallycrossed vertically Sample Thickness by scorpion by scorpion No. (mils)(SE camera) (NW camera) 16 1.26 15 16 17 2.22 13 12 18 3 12 10 19 4.5 129 20 6.36 11 9 21 8.98 10 9 22 9.14 3 1 23 10.6 2 1 24 12 1 1 25 12.54 11 26 12.64 1 1 27 13.96 1 1 28 14.16 0 0 29 14.4 0 0 30 15 0 0 31 15.660 0 32 17.24 0 0 33 18.12 0 0

The results of the second experiment are consistent with the firstexperiment, with samples having an average surface roughness of lessthan 10 μm being extremely effective in preventing scorpions fromclimbing across the inventive coating layer. In contrast to the firstexperiment, because the cinder block had a relatively rougher surfacethan the brick, a greater wet coating thickness was required for thecinder block samples to achieve the target surface roughness

The viscosity of the liquid coating was also evaluated. Specifically,190 grams of the inventive coating and 10 grams of xylene were measuredinto a metal can to yield a 5% dilution of the product. The product wasmixed for 60 seconds to fully incorporate both liquids, stirring slowlyto avoid air bubbles. The viscosity of the diluted liquid coating wasmeasured with a Zahn dip cup #5 according to ASTM D4212-99. The dilutedproduct was applied to a painted brick in one coat using a 2 inchsynthetic paint brush. One coat was defined as two brush strokes appliedhorizontally, repeating this motion down the face of the brick until theentire 20×9.5 cm surface was coated. A wet film thickness comb was usedto measure the thickness of the first coat. This coat was left to dryfor 15 minutes. A second coat of the diluted liquid coating was appliedin the same manner, and the final wet film thickness (i.e., the wetthickness of both coats) was measured. After 24 hours, the dry filmthickness was measured using the Defelsko PosiTector 200 dry filmthickness gauge by averaging five successive measurements. Thisprocedure was also evaluated using increasing dilutions. However, theZahn cup had to be changed to place the viscosity range within thecalibrated range of the Zahn cup. The results of this evaluation areshown below in Table V.

TABLE V Liquid Wet thickness Wet thickness coating Xylene EffluxViscosity Zahn after Coat 1 after Coat 2 (g) (g) Dilution time (s)(mm²/s) cup # (mils) (mils) DFT 200 0  0% 42.823 984.93 5 26 35 15.2 19010  5% 46.93 461.33 3 18 28 14.58 184 16  8% 38.083 357.82 3 16 26 13.88180 20 10% 33.73 306.89 3 14 26 12.26 170 30 15% 22.053 170.27 3 12 249.62 160 40 20% 17.07 112 3 10 18 8.96

The results of the experiment indicate that the minimum viscosity of thewet inventive coating is about 300 mm²/s for the purpose of achieving anadequate film thickness with two coats.

The hardness of the inventive coating layer with a dried film thicknessof 14 mils on a brick was also evaluated and compared to a controlhaving a similar film thickness. The hardness measurements ASTM D3363-20using a Wolff-Wilborn pencil. The control used for this experiment was acommercially available exterior paint from Behr sold under the tradenamePremium Plus Exterior Satin Enamel. Surface roughness of the sampleswere measured using the TR-Y-SRT-6200S Surface Roughness Gauge,according to ANSI/ASME B46.1. The results are presented below in TableVI.

TABLE VI Coating Gouge Scratch Surface roughness (DFT 14 mils) hardnesshardness (μm) Control H 4B 12.04 Inventive Sample 2H 2H 9.09

Although the surface roughness and hardness values between the inventivesample and the control were somewhat close, the inventive coating layerof the present invention was harder and smoother. These samples werethen used to evaluate whether the perceived closeness of the hardnessand surface roughness would have an impact on the ability of the coatingsystem to deter scorpions from scaling across the coating. To evaluatethis, ten bark scorpions were added to a 10 gallon glass aquarium. Theaquarium was placed in direct sunlight, heating the interior to 35° C.to simulate a natural desert environment and prompt scorpions to attemptclimbing. A coated brick was placed inside the tank. The number ofscorpions that had successfully climbed and adhered to the brick after60 seconds was counted and recorded. Scorpions with all four pairs ofwalking legs attached to the vertical surface of the brick were countedevery 60 seconds for 10 minutes to complete one trial. Three trials werecompleted per sample, each with a different group of 10 scorpions. Theresults are presented below in Tables VII (a)-(c).

TABLE VII (a) Trial I Coating 1 min 2 min 3 min 4 min 5 min 6 min 7 min8 min 9 min 10 min Control 1 0 0 0 0 3 3 3 3 3 Inventive Sample 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0

TABLE VII (b) Trial II Coating 1 min 2 min 3 min 4 min 5 min 6 min 7 min8 min 9 min 10 min Control 3 4 2 3 3 4 4 4 4 4 Inventive Sample 0 0 0 00 0 0 0 0 0

TABLE VII (c) Trial III Coating 1 min 2 min 3 min 4 min 5 min 6 min 7min 8 min 9 min 10 min Control 0 2 2 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 Inventive Sample 0 00 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

The results shown in Tables VII (a)-(c) convincingly demonstrate theinventive sample, with a gouge hardness of 2H and a surface roughness of9 μm, completely prevented scorpions from scaling the bricks, whereasthe control sample with relatively close hardness and surface roughnessvalues allowed a significant percentage of the scorpions to scale itssurface.

A series of experiments were also conducted to evaluate the synergisticeffects of pesticides when applied to the coating layer. To conduct thistesting, four commercially available, but different, pyrethroidinsecticides were evaluated (active ingredient disclosed inparentheses): Terro Scorpion Killer (prallethrin and esfenvalerate),Harris Scorpion Killer (deltamethrin), Cy-Kick (cyfluthrin), OnslaughtFastCap (prallethrin, esfenvalerate, and piperonyl butoxide). Two of thepesticides, Cy-Kick and Onslaught, are microencapsulated pesticides witha polymer coating surrounding the active ingredient. Eight enclosureswere constructed, each with four clay bricks arranged in a square toform a wall and a 30.48×30.48 cm stone paver as the floor. The fourbricks were held together and adhered to the paver with Quikrete mortar.The inner walls of each enclosure were coated with the inventive coatinglayer to prevent scorpions from escaping. Four enclosures also received26 wet mils of the inventive coating applied to the paver floor to beused as inventive samples. The remaining four enclosures were used ascontrols and received a coating of Behr Premium Plus Exterior SatinEnamel paint on the floor.

Each pesticide was applied to the floor of two arenas according to thepesticides' recommended application instructions: one with the inventivecoating layer and one without a coating layer. The pesticides wereapplied evenly to each surface until the surface was sufficientlycovered and left to dry overnight before scorpions were added. Fiveadult bark scorpions of similar size ranging from 1.5-2.75 inches wereplaced inside each enclosure. Scorpion activity was filmed for 13 hours.The footage was reviewed to determine whether the inventive samplesincreased scorpion paralysis or death. If scorpions remained activeafter this time period, the enclosures were periodically checked overthe next 48 hours.

Upon immediate exposure to pesticides, scorpions ran around thesubstrate of the enclosure. Some scorpions attempted to climb verticallyup the coated brick walls of the enclosure, but none were successful.The time of paralysis for each scorpion was recorded. If a scorpion wasalive and appeared able to walk as normal more than 48 hours afterexposure, a result of “alive” was reported. The results are reportedbelow in Tables VIII (a)-(d).

TABLE VIII (a) Inventive Coating Layer + Control + Terro Scorpion KillerTerro Scorpion Killer Time of Time of paralysis paralysis Scorpion(h:m:s) Scorpion (h:m:s) 1 02:48:36 1 02:45:36 2 02:57:54 2 03:48:00 303:10:12 3 04:29:24 4 03:14:24 4 05:33:00 5 04:28:12 5 05:46:12 Average03:19:48 Average 04:28:30

On average, paralysis time was 34.8% faster when Terro Scorpion Killerwas used with the inventive coating layer as compared to the control.

TABLE VIII (b) Inventive Coating Layer + Control + Harris ScorpionKiller Harris Scorpion Killer Time of Time of paralysis paralysisScorpion (h:m:s) Scorpion (h:m:s) 1 02:39:36 1 02:54:36 2 02:42:36 203:15:36 3 03:07:48 3 03:15:36 4 03:43:48 4 03:28:48 5 03:43:48 503:45:36 Average 03:11:30 Average 03:19:48

On average, paralysis time was 4.4% faster when Harris Scorpion Killerwas used with the inventive coating layer as compared to the control.

TABLE VIII (c) Inventive Coating Layer + Control + Cy-Kick Cy-Kick Timeof Time of paralysis paralysis Scorpion (h:m:s) Scorpion (h:m:s) 100:42:19 1 00:36:02 2 01:24:36 2 00:53:55 3 01:15:00 3 01:42:00 401:17:48 4 02:03:36 5 01:58:48 5 02:06:36 Average 01:19:24 Average01:28:21

On average, paralysis time was 10.84% faster when Cy-Kick was used withthe inventive coating layer as compared to the control.

TABLE VIII (d) Inventive Coating Layer + Control + Onslaught FastcapOnslaught Fastcap Time of Time of paralysis paralysis Scorpion (h:m:s)Scorpion (h:m:s) 1 00:42:29 1 01:11:22 2 00:56:93 2 01:40:30 3 01:08:243 02:04:48 4 01:11:58 4 02:19:34 5 01:15:00 5 03:12:00 Average 01:02:24Average 02:04:48

On average, paralysis time was 98.97% faster when Onslaught Fastcap wasused with the inventive coating layer as compared to the control.

In summary, the test results presented in Tables VIII (a)-(d)unexpectedly demonstrate that the coating layer of the presentdisclosure increases the effectiveness of pesticides applied to thecoating.

To further evaluate the synergy between the coating layer of the presentdisclosure and pesticides, additional experiments were conducted withcommercially available pesticides. A conventional coating layer wasapplied to the floor of the control samples. Specifically, six arenaswere constructed with each arena having a concrete floor. Three of thearenas had 26 wet mils of the inventive coating layer applied to theconcrete floor and three of the arenas had 5 mils of KILZ premium 3interior/exterior primer (i.e., a conventional coating layer) applied tothe concrete floor. The commercially available pesticides used in thisexperiment were (active ingredient disclosed in parentheses): Ortho HomeDefense (Bifenthrin, Zeta-Cypermethrin), Bifen XTS (Bifenthrin), andCyonara (Lambda-Cyhalothrin). One group of five bark scorpions rangingin size from 1.5-2.75 inches was added simultaneously to each arena.Scorpion activity was recorded via Sony camcorder for 6 hours. Paralysistime was reported. The arenas were checked for deceased scorpions for 48hours if no paralysis was observed after 6 hours. The results arereported below in Tables IX (a)-(c).

TABLE IX (a) Inventive Coating Layer + KILZ + Ortho Home Defense OrthoHome Defense Time of Time of Alive Paralysis Paralysis after 48 Scorpion(h:m:s) Scorpion (h:m:s) hours? 1 02:43:48 1 n/a Yes 2 02:46:00 2 noneYes 3 02:46:00 3 none Yes 4 02:51:00 4 none Yes 5 02:58:48 5 none YesAverage 02:36:36 Average n/a n/a

TABLE IX (b) Inventive Coating Layer + KILZ + Bifen XTS Bifen XTS Timeof Time of Alive Paralysis Paralysis after 48 Scorpion (h:m:s) Scorpion(h:m:s) hours? 1 01:58:48 1 n/a Yes 2 02:10:28 2 n/a Yes 3 02:28:48 3n/a Yes 4 02:30:00 4 n/a Yes 5 04:45:36 5 n/a Yes Average 02:46:48Average n/a n/a

TABLE IX (c) Inventive Coating Layer + KILZ + Cyonara Cyonara Time ofTime of Alive Paralysis Paralysis after 48 Scorpion (h:m:s) Scorpion(h:m:s) hours? 1 00:37:46 1 n/a Yes 2 01:02:22 2 n/a Yes 3 01:04:02 3n/a Yes 4 01:22:02 4 n/a Yes 5 01:45:04 5 n/a Yes Average 01:10:16Average n/a n/a

As shown above in Tables IX (a)-(c), each and every scorpion within thearena was paralyzed within 3 hours of exposure. In surprisingly starkcontrast, no scorpions within the control arenas were paralyzed orkilled within 48 hours of exposure to the same pesticides.

Additional experiments were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness ofthe inventive coating layer in regard to its ability to prevent Arizonabark scorpions (Centruroides sculpturatus), American cockroaches(Periplaneta americana), Turkestan cockroaches (Shelfordella lateralis),and Oriental cockroaches (Blatta orientalis) from scaling/climbingacross the coating. In particular, two identical wooden structures(24×24×18 cm) were constructed and placed into an arena. In theinventive arenas, the vertical surfaces of the wooden structure werecoated with 30-40 wet mils of the inventive coating. The wooden surfacesof the control arenas were left untreated. A thin layer of baby powderwas dusted on top of each structure to monitor pest activity.Additionally, a food item (dead cockroach or dog food) was placed at thecenter of each structure to entice the pests to attempt to climb thewalls. Four individuals of each species tested were placed into thearena and were monitored daily for three days (each species was runseparately). These tests were run under normal laboratory conditions(24° C.; 12:12 day/night cycle; 40% relative humidity).

Upon placing the scorpions into the arena, they immediately started toclimb the untreated structure. Attempts were made to climb the structuretreated with the inventive coating layer; however, the scorpions wereunsuccessful. After 24 hours, the food item was removed from theuntreated structure while the food item on the treated structureremained in its original location. At the end of the trial, it wasapparent that the scorpions had made it to the top of the untreatedstructure many times as the baby powder had numerous track marks. Thebaby powder at the top of the structure treated with the inventivecoating layer remained undisturbed and the food item was never removed.This provides evidence that the inventive coating layer acted as aphysical barrier against scorpions when tested under these laboratoryconditions.

As with the scorpions, all of the cockroach species were able to climbthe control structures with ease. Attempts were made to climb theinventive structure, but no successful attempt was directly observed.After 72 hours, the baby powder on top of the inventive coating layerremained undisturbed in both the Turkestan and Oriental trials withsubstantial activity observed on the control structures. A few trackmarks were found on top of the inventive coating layer for the Americancockroach trail, although the track marks on the corresponding controlwere significantly greater. The experiments conclusively demonstratedthat the inventive structures significantly outperformed theircorresponding controls.

The present disclosure has been described in an illustrative manner, andit is to be understood that the terminology which has been used isintended to be in the nature of words of description rather than oflimitation. Many modifications and variations of the present disclosureare possible in light of the above teachings. The present disclosure maybe practiced otherwise than as specifically described. The subjectmatter of all combinations of independent and dependent claims, bothsingly and multiply dependent, is herein expressly contemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. A barrier system comprising: a substantiallyvertical structure; and a coating layer disposed over and circumscribinga majority of said substantially vertical structure; wherein saidcoating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches, has a dried filmthickness of at least 5 mils, and has an average surface roughness(R_(a)) of less than 10 microns.
 2. The barrier system of claim 1wherein said substantially vertical structure is an exterior surface ofa home.
 3. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein said substantiallyvertical structure is a leg of a crib.
 4. The barrier system of claim 1wherein a pesticide is applied on said coating layer, below said coatinglayer, or both.
 5. The barrier system of claim 4 wherein said pesticideincludes a polymeric component that encapsulates an active ingredient insaid pesticide.
 6. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein said coatinglayer comprises an acrylic polymer.
 7. The barrier system of claim 6wherein said coating layer comprises a copolymer of styrene and2-ethylhexylacrylate.
 8. The barrier system of claim 1, wherein saidcoating layer is formed from a liquid coating having a solid content ofat least 40 wt.%, based on the total weight of said liquid coating andsaid liquid coating has a total wet film thickness of at least 10microns.
 9. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein the average surfaceroughness of said coating layer is configured to prevent pests fromreaching an upper portion of said substantially vertical structure thatis located above said coating layer.
 10. The barrier system of claim 9wherein said pests are scorpions, cockroaches, or both.
 11. The barriersystem of claim 1 wherein said coating layer increases the retention ofa pesticide applied directly to said coating layer when compared to theretention of said pesticide applied directly to a substrate supportingsaid coating layer.
 12. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein saidcoating layer increases the dwell time of pests in a pesticide appliedbelow said coating layer when compared to the dwell time of pests whensaid pesticide is applied without said coating layer being disposedabove said pesticide.
 13. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein anadhesive secures said coating layer to said substantially verticalstructure.
 14. The barrier system of claim 1 wherein the coating layerhas a gouge and scratch hardness of at least 2H when measured inaccordance with ASTM D3363-20 and wherein the coating layer is formedfrom a liquid coating having a viscosity of greater than 300 mm²/s whenmeasured in accordance with ASTM D4212-99.
 15. A method of forming abarrier system comprising: applying a liquid coating to a surface of asubstantially vertical structure to form a coating layer disposed overand circumscribing a majority of the substantially vertical structure;and wherein the coating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches, hasa dried film thickness of at least 5 mils, and has an average surfaceroughness (R_(a)) of less than 10 microns.
 16. The method of claim 15wherein: the substantially vertical structure is an exterior surface ofa home; the liquid coating comprises a copolymer of styrene and2-ethylhexylacrylate, has a solid content of at least 40 wt.%, based onthe total weight of the liquid coating, a total wet film thickness of atleast 10 microns after application to the substantially verticalstructure, has a viscosity of greater than 300 mm2/s when measured inaccordance with ASTM D4212-99; and the coating layer has a gouge andscratch hardness of at least 2H, when measured in accordance with ASTMD3363-20.
 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the average surfaceroughness of the coating layer is configured to prevent pests fromreaching an upper portion of the substantially vertical structure thatis located above the coating layer; and wherein the coating layerincreases the dwell time of pests in a pesticide applied below thecoating layer when compared to the dwell time of pests exposed to thepesticide applied without the coating layer disposed above thepesticide, wherein the pests are scorpions, cockroaches, or both.
 18. Amethod of forming a barrier system comprising: transferring a driedcoating layer to a surface of a substantially vertical structure to forma coating layer disposed over and circumscribing a majority of thesubstantially vertical structure; and wherein the coating layer has aheight of at least 0.25 inches, has a dried film thickness of at least 5mils, and has an average surface roughness (R_(a)) of less than 10microns.
 19. The method of claim 18 wherein the dried coating layer istransferred to the substantially vertical structure via an adhesive. 20.The method of claim 19 wherein the adhesive is a pressure sensitiveadhesive.